Canada’s Game-Changing Immigration Measures for the Construction Industry (2025-2027)

On March 7, 2025, the Honorable Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), introduced transformative immigration policies under the 2025–2027 Immigration Levels Plan. These strategic initiatives aim to address labor shortages in Canada’s construction sector, accelerate housing projects, and create long-term workforce sustainability.

With Canada facing a housing crisis and infrastructure delays, these measures introduce innovative pathways for foreign apprentices, out-of-status workers, and collaborative industry-government partnerships to bolster the workforce.

This guide comprehensively explains these new immigration policies and how they will impact construction workers, employers, and the Canadian economy.

Key Immigration Measures for the Construction Industry

The government has introduced three groundbreaking initiatives:

1. Study Permit Exemption for Foreign Apprentices

2. Regularization Pathway for Out-of-Status Construction Workers

3. Formation of a Tripartite Advisory Council

Let’s explore these policies in detail.

1. Study Permit Exemption for Foreign Apprentices

As of February 26, 2025, foreign apprentices in eligible construction trades can study in Canada without a study permit under a temporary two-year public policy.

This exemption eliminates bureaucratic delays, allowing skilled tradespeople to gain industry-relevant education and integrate into the Canadian workforce faster.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify, candidates must:

• Hold a valid work permit

• Work in an eligible construction occupation

• Have a registered apprenticeship agreement with a provincial or territorial authority

Eligible Occupations (Based on NOC 2021)

The exemption applies to various trades, including:

• Construction Managers (NOC 70010)

• Civil Engineers (NOC 21300)

• Plumbers (NOC 72300)

• Electricians (NOC 72200)

• Carpenters (NOC 72310)

• Bricklayers (NOC 72320)

• Welders (NOC 72106)

For a complete list, refer to the National Occupational Classification (NOC) system.

2. Regularization Pathway for Out-of-Status Construction Workers

Building on the success of the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) Pilot Program, Canada is launching a nationwide regularization pathway to grant legal status to undocumented construction workers.

Who Qualifies?

• Workers who entered Canada legally but overstayed visas

• Individuals employed in construction without formal authorization

• Workers who have been contributing to Canada’s infrastructure projects

How It Works

• Workers must prove employment in an eligible construction trade

• Background checks and verification processes will be conducted

• The pathway may offer temporary work permits with a clear route to permanent residency

Why It’s Important

• Boosts the economy: Retains skilled workers and prevents labor shortages

• Improves worker rights: Provides legal security for those already contributing

• Accelerates housing projects: Supports the government’s plan to build 3.5 million new homes by 2030

3. Formation of a Tripartite Advisory Council

The federal government, in collaboration with industry leaders and labor unions, has formed a Tripartite Advisory Council to:

• Identify regional labor shortages

• Recommend sector-specific immigration policies

• Ensure fair wages and protections for foreign workers

This council will play a crucial role in shaping long-term immigration strategies to meet Canada’s growing demand for construction professionals.

How to Apply for These Programs

For Foreign Apprentices (Study Permit Exemption)

1. Gather supporting documents:

• Valid work permit

• Employment proof (job contract, pay stubs)

• Apprenticeship agreement

2. Submit a Web Form Request via IRCC’s portal

3. Await an authorization letter, which serves as approval to study without a permit

For Out-of-Status Workers (Regularization Pathway)

1. Monitor IRCC updates for application openings

2. Prepare proof of employment (work contracts, tax records)

3. Seek guidance from an immigration consultant for a seamless application

For Employers

1. Engage with the Tripartite Advisory Council to communicate workforce needs

2. Hire eligible apprentices under the new study permit exemption

3. Support employees in regularization pathways

Apply here: Atozee Visas; your overall solution for Overseas 

Why Construction is a Priority for Canada’s Immigration Plan

Canada’s construction sector is a critical pillar of its economy:

• Employs 1.5 million workers

• Contributes 7% to national GDP

• Faces a severe labor shortage due to retirements and increasing housing demands

Key Challenges Addressed by These Measures

• Housing Crisis: Accelerates home construction to meet CMHC’s 3.5 million-home target

• Aging Workforce: Offsets retirements with new skilled tradespeople

• Economic Growth: Supports major projects in urban centers and rural communities

Final Thoughts: Canada’s Bold Move in Immigration Reform

Canada’s 2025-2027 Immigration Levels Plan signals a transformative shift in its approach to workforce development. By:

• Empowering foreign apprentices through study permit exemptions

• Legalizing out-of-status workers to address labor shortages

• Fostering industry-government collaboration through the Tripartite Advisory Council

These policies will reshape the construction sector and pave the way for more sustainable workforce solutions.

As Canada continues to innovate its immigration policies, these initiatives could extend beyond construction, potentially influencing reforms in healthcare, technology, and other industries.